Ruckle Provincial Park is a popular camping location on Salt Spring, but the rocky shores make launching and landing difficult, especially for the longer ocean kayaks. Paddling books and websites suggest launching in Fulford or Ganges Harbor, but we found a spot in the park that works fine,  with a bit of extra work.   We parked at the day-use area and hauled our boats across the lawn, then down a narrow steep path to a small gravel cove.

We were able to launch and land there, even at low tide.   From there, we went around Beaver Point then southwest around Eleanor Point toward Fulford Harbor.

This is a scenic route, passing rocky bluffs and small islets.   Seals appeared briefly in the water and several were basking in the sun on Jackson Rock.

We were able to land on shell beaches on islets too to take a break and to explore tidal pools.  We were amused by the spelling on the sign and we decided to rename the islet “Shoelace Eyelet.”

We enjoyed paddling in Fulford Harbor and returned to paddle there twice more in the week.   The only boat we encountered in the Harbour was the ferry to Syndey.   We were surprised by how quiet it was and how small a wake it left.   Fulford Harbour was a quiet and pleasant paddle each day.

From this launch we could also explore Portland Island to the southeast or Prevost Island (Gulf Islands National Park) to the north, planned for future trips to the southern Gulf Islands.